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Francis contributed better than 12 ppg and 9 rpg to the Express in 2006-07

2-Time All American Brings Added Experience to the Jersey Post

Newark, N.J. (Thursday, July 30, 2009) – The Jersey Express of the American Basketball Association announced today that two-time Division III All American center Sekani Francis will be joining the team for the 2009-10 season. The Lehman College product is returning to the Express after a two year layoff from professional basketball, and he looks to make an immediate impact in his homecoming this fall.

"I'm happy to back with the team,” Francis remarked. “A lot is expected of me coming back after the success they had last season, and (Express President) Marsha (Blount) already told me that anything less than a finals appearance would be disappointing. I'm looking forward to the challenge."

Francis, a two-time CUNY Conference Most Valuable Player, averaged 19.3 points and 12.3 boards his senior year at Lehman College and earned himself a second All America nod to cap off his college basketball career. The 6-10 center played for the Express during the 2006-07 ABA season, averaging over 12 points and nine rebounds per contest. Prior to attending college, the Bronx native played for the renowned basketball power John F. Kennedy High School.

"Kani's return allows us to sure up the middle once again,” Express assistant coach Cassandra Smith stated. “He’s a 6-10 guy with a jump shot and the potential to be a 10-plus rebounder. Don't be fooled by his polite demeanor."

The Express recently announced their second open tryout that will take place on Saturday, August 22nd. Through their partnership with the Newark Urban Coordinating Council and Network Youth Basketball of Newark, the tryouts will be taking place from 12-4:00 p.m. at the Westside Park Gym in Newark.

“The Jersey Express is looking for local talent to fill the remaining spots on our roster for the 2009-10 season,” Blount said. “We will be signing players from the August 22nd tryout.”

Pre-registration for tryouts is available through the Jersey Express website at www.jerseyexpress.net, and the cost for early registration is $75. The fee on the day of tryouts will be $100, with only cash being accepted that day. Players interested in trying out should wear basketball attire and be prepared to do a number of drills that will focus on both skill and overall knowledge of the game. As more information is made available regarding tryouts, it will be posted to the Express website.

Press releases for the Jersey Express are written by Resolution Sports, the official media partner of the team.